In response, the government has ordered the closure of offices belonging to ten prominent groups, including Doctors Without Borders (MSF), the United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), and the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC).

These accusations bear a striking resemblance to an incident in Tunisia two years ago, which was widely criticised for being rooted in anti-Black racism. The Libyan government’s decision is expected to have wide-reaching consequences, not only for the migrant population but also for the operations of humanitarian organisations working in the country.

Since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, Libya has struggled with instability, with armed militias and human traffickers gaining control in various parts of the country. This has led to the collapse of central authority, dividing the country into rival administrations. Reports have emerged of migrants being held in detention centres run by armed groups, where they face brutal treatment, including starvation, torture, and even death.

Amid this chaotic environment, international aid organisations have been providing essential support to migrants. However, Libyan officials claim that these groups are exacerbating the crisis by allowing migrants to stay in the country rather than helping them move on to Europe. They argue that this contributes to an unsustainable situation and affects the country’s demographic balance.

A Spokesperson for one of the affected organisations commented; "Libyan authorities have accused aid groups of plotting to change the country's ethnic make-up by encouraging African migrants to stay there and have ordered them to close their offices. Ten groups have been singled out, including Doctors Without Borders, the UN refugee agency, and the NRC. This mirrors an earlier announcement from Tunisia, which was quickly condemned as anti-Black racism."

Libya's position as a key transit hub for African migrants attempting to reach Europe has made the country a focal point for migration-related issues. The government's accusations against aid groups come at a time when human rights organisations are under increasing pressure to address abuses against migrants. Yet, with the country in the grip of armed groups, the closure of these humanitarian offices is likely to leave many migrants even more exposed to exploitation and violence.

--ChannelAfrica--